Aamir Khan’s ‘failed’ audition tape for Laapataa Ladies has fans saying it’s ‘Ravi Kishan ke samne pani kam chai’. Watch | Bollywood-OxBig News Network

When Laapataa Ladies released in theatres in December 2023, director Kiran Rao had revealed that her ex-husband and the film’s producer, Aamir Khan, was keen to play the cop in the film. Aamir even auditioned for the role that eventually went to Ravi Kishan. Now, the footage of Aamir’s audition is out and has the internet praising Kiran for making the right choice. (Also read: ‘Itna seriously nahi lena chahiye’: Aamir Khan reacts to Laapataa Ladies’ exit from Oscars 2025 race)

Aamir Khan’s audition for Laapataa Ladies

The audition tape was shared by Aamir’s new YouTube channel, Aamir Khan Talkies, on Wednesday. It shows Aamir in a police uniform with slicked-back hair and chewing a paan, the signature style of the character. He is seen saying a few lines from the film sitting behind a desk. The audition reel contained a few bloopers too and was peppered with Aamir’s take on SI Shyam Manohar’s character, as he introduced different mannerisms and body language into the character.

The internet reacts

After the video was shared on social media, many fans praised Aamir’s take on the character, but most felt that Ravi Kishan was a better choice for the role. “Aamir sir isn’t compatible for this role. Ravi Kishan did a far better job,” one wrote. Another added, “No doubt that Aamir is a great actor, but Ravi Kishan nailed that role; it was meant for him.”

Many felt that the character’s arc would have been predictable if a superstar like Aamir had played it. One reasoned, “If Aamir did that role, it would have been too predictable.” Another argued, “Had Aamir played the role, the surprise element of the bad cop turning good would have been lost. RK did well, so no regrets.”

A few were harsher still in their analysis of Aamir’s audition, with one writing: “Ravi kishan ji ke samne pani cum chay performance (This is nothing in front of Ravi Kishan’s performance).”

About Laapataa Ladies

Around the film’s release, director Kiran Rao had said that Aamir was interested in playing Shyam Manohar and auditioned for it but backed out after he saw Ravi Kishan’s screen test for the same role, realising that he was a better fit for the role.

Laapataa Ladies stars newcomers Sparsh Srivastava, Nitanshi Goel, and Pratibha Ranta, and it is a story about two brides who are exchanged in rural India in the 90s. The film won critical acclaim and recently won 10 trophies at the IIFA Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Ravi Kishan.